Beyond the lens - Billie Eilish

70-

Ellie wakes up slowly, her body feeling heavy but firmly grounded in the reality of morning. A warm, protective arm rests on her stomach, a familiar, comforting touch she doesn't quite know how to describe. Turning her head, she sees Billie sleeping beside her. Her face is serene, relaxed, far from the tension and intensity of the night before. A strange feeling washes over Ellie as she watches her silently. She still can't grasp it. How did this girl, of all people, want her, even for just one night? Is this real, or just a fleeting moment? A simple whim?

Her thoughts trouble her. She's always struggled to believe she could attract someone, let alone someone like Billie.

She can't help but watch her, a mix of admiration and uncertainty in her eyes. Billie looks so peaceful next to her, so beautiful. Ellie allows herself a tender gesture, gently tucking a strand of Billie's hair behind her ear, her finger barely grazing her skin as if not to disturb her. Her movements are slow and cautious, afraid to shatter the fragile moment.

She tries to slip out of bed discreetly, hoping not to make any noise. But she gets tangled in the sheet, landing on the floor with a loud thud. Her heart skips a beat, but to her relief, Billie doesn't stir. She merely lets out a soft groan and rolls over, curling into the blankets. Ellie watches her for another moment, biting back laughter, then heads silently to the bathroom.

The hot water from the shower flows over her skin as Ellie closes her eyes, letting the heat seep into her body. Her thoughts wander. What happens now? How will this night affect their relationship? Things between them were already a little complicated, a little intense, but now, after what they've shared, everything feels even more uncertain. What does this mean for them, for their friendship, for what they could become? Ellie can't find an answer, settling instead for the uncertainty consuming her. Going from that almost-kiss in the trailer to this night...

When she's done showering, she grabs one of Billie's T-shirts, feeling a little like an intruder in this massive wardrobe. It's strange, being so immersed in Billie's private space, wearing her clothes, rummaging through her things as if it's the most natural thing in the world. She can't help but smile at the impressive number of T-shirts, each cooler than the last. After taking a moment to appreciate the collection, she returns to the bedroom.

Billie still seems deeply asleep. Ellie approaches quietly, but before she can retreat, Billie grabs her arm in one quick motion, making her jump. A shiver runs through Ellie, but Billie just looks up at her with a playful expression.

"You know it's creepy to watch people sleep?" Billie says, her voice raspy, still half-asleep.

"Shit, I'm sorry, I thought you were..." Ellie begins to apologize, but Billie cuts her off, amusement flickering in her eyes.

"Relax, Ellie, I'm kidding," she says with a small smirk, sitting up slightly.

Ellie laughs in response.

"Did you sleep well?" she asks, a little hesitant.

Billie nods, her smile radiant.

"The best I've had in a long time," she murmurs, and there's a subtle change in her gaze. She moves closer to Ellie, her hand gliding down her arm.

Ellie suddenly feels a bit more nervous, but she plays along with Billie's game without hesitation.

"That good?" she teases.

Billie's fingers trace along Ellie's arm, pulling her gently closer, her gaze intense as she edges even nearer. Ellie's heart races.

"And you know what would make it even better?" Billie murmurs, her voice low and seductive.